THE GOOD NEWS COMES CLOSER

Introduction

Approaching elections in Ghana, each candidate is wide open to see who is on their side. They assume that people on your side determine one's prospects in an election. So, a candidate's ability to pull the majority is a determination of victory. 

For us, the Psalmist puts it, "...If it had not been the LORD who was on our side when people rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us up alive, when their anger was kindled against us." (Psalms 124:2-3). 

You could have many people on your side and still be ruined. You could have a mother, father, siblings, and family for you, yet still live in defeat and disaster. You could be very well-liked and have many friends who want you to do well, and still end up in hell – both figuratively and literally.  

The One we must have on our side is the LORD. Only Jesus Christ is capable of defending us against the forces that come against us in this world. If the Lord is on our side then we will never be given up to our enemies. God will vindicate us! We will enjoy glory, victory, and safety.

Bible Exploration

Our readings from Acts, 1 John, and Luke provide a rich tapestry of insights into this divine presence that guides, comforts, and transforms our lives.

In Acts 3:12-19, we witness the power of Jesus working through Peter and John as they heal a man lame from birth. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, declares that it is through the name of Jesus that this miracle has happened. This account reminds us that Jesus is not a distant figure of the past but a living, with an active presence in our lives today. 

Jesus is at our side, and when we call upon His name in faith, miracles can happen, and lives can be transformed. Peter says, "To this we are witnesses. And His name—by faith in His name—has made this man strong whom you see and know, and the faith that is through Jesus has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all." (Acts 3:15-16)

From 1 John 3:1-7, we are reminded of the incredible love that God has lavished upon us by calling us His children. This love is not merely a concept but a reality that we experience through Jesus Christ. Jesus at our side is about righteous life, a life without sin. 

As we abide in Him, we are purified and empowered to live righteous lives. Jesus, our constant companion, walks with us, guiding us along the path of righteousness and helping us overcome sin.

In the gospel (Luke 24:36-48), we encounter the risen Jesus appearing to His disciples, assuring them that He (Jesus) is on their side and commissioning them to be witnesses of His resurrection. Despite their initial disbelief and confusion, Jesus patiently reveals Himself, showing His wounds as proof of His identity. 

He opens their minds to understand the Scriptures, emphasizing that His suffering, death, and resurrection were foretold and necessary for salvation. Jesus practically indicated to the disciples of being with them when, "... they were talking about these things, Jesus Himself stood among them, and said to them, “Peace to you!” (Luke 24:36). 

Jesus at our side

So, what does it mean to have Jesus at our side? 

• - It means having a constant source of strength, comfort, and guidance. 
• - It means being reassured of God's love and forgiveness. 
• - It means being empowered to live as children of God, walking in righteousness and truth. 
• - It means being equipped to be witnesses of His grace and mercy to a world in need of hope.

Conclusion

As we reflect on these passages, let us consider how we can deepen our relationship with Jesus, inviting Him to walk alongside us in every aspect of our lives. Let us embrace His presence with gratitude and faith, knowing that He is indeed at our side, now and forevermore.

May the love of Christ dwell richly in our hearts, and may His presence guide us in all that we do. Amen.

Shalom aleikhem...